There was a wave of relief and happiness in Rajasthan today as the first batch of 164 Haj pilgrims returned safely from Saudi Arabia. The contingent of 81 women and 83 men arrived at Jaipur’s Sanganer International Airport, the commencement of the return journey of this year’s Haj pilgrimage.
Warm Reunion and Emotional Scenes
Families, friends, and officers of the Rajasthan State Hajj Committee received the pilgrims at the airport. There were tearful hugs and thanks as loved ones were reunited after weeks apart. Many returnees have termed their experience as “peaceful” and “spiritually enriching,” thanking the comfort and arrangements throughout the journey.
More Flights to Follow
This is the initial one of 17 such flights that will return Hajj pilgrims from Rajasthan. Each flight will accommodate 160–165 passengers, with the back phase going on until June 29. Officials asserted that the back operations are being conducted with complete logistical support and medical preparedness.
Prayers Beyond Borders
Most of the pilgrims shared that during their rituals in Makkah and Madinah, they also offered prayers for peace throughout the world, particularly in the backdrop of existing tensions in parts of Iran and Israel. “We prayed for everyone’s safety, not only for our own families but for all those affected in war-torn areas,” a pilgrim from Alwar told.
Minor Setbacks, Smooth Process
Authorities added that this year’s pilgrimage proceeded mostly incident-free. A brief technical snag on one of the flights to Lucknow resulted in a short delay but was quickly rectified. There were no casualties or injuries, and all pilgrims were safely housed.
Importance for Rajasthan
For Rajasthan, this return is the culmination of a month-long exercise that kicked off with Hajj training camps and departure procedures in May. The smooth return is a testament to both the efforts of the Hajj Committee and Saudi authorities’ coordination.
With more flights to arrive over the next few days, the state is waiting patiently to safely and comfortably bring back all pilgrims.
